Grenville M. Dodge to M. Rochester, July 21, 1862

Capt. M. RoCHESTER, Assistant Adjutant-General, Columbus, Ky. : I have but one report from my calvary parties sent out; that is a rumor from Big Obiou. It is said we have had a small fight 25 miles down the Obion. Lieutenant-Colonel Hogg, with five companies, is in that vicinity. At Key Corners they are in force, but by to-night will have left or been attacked. ;

My fears now are from the ‘Tennessee River. A large band is forming there, I expect, to clear them out west in time to mass my cavalry and meet that band before they get very near to me. I am very much opposed to weakening my cavalry force now, if it can be avoided. We have all the important bridges to hold, with no surplus force at any place, while south of me they have divisions and brigades at points on the road.

very respectfully, your obedient servant